Although the journey did not end the way we had planned (or ever could have expected) we never lost sight of what the Botswana Journey was about and so below is a picture of us tying our final ribbon at Milpark Hospital in Johannesburg where we spent a week. following the accident. This ribbon represents the passing of 2,204 women and 2,204km travelled (the medical evacuation aeroplane was not expected but did enable us to complete the km's). We cannot thank everyone enough for their kindness, support and dedication to the Journey and also to enabling us to overcome the challenges we faced.
Above & below - the Stunning Old Bridge Backpackers in Maun, Botswana - we only wish we could have stayed longer!!!!
Above - Tying a ribbon at the Salt Plains to mark the loss of 735 women (735km travelled)
Below - The Salt Plains near Nata, Botswana - simply stunning!
Below - one of the most moving and empowering moments of the trip - planting a Palm Tree given to us and the women of Marobela by Mma Margaret Mosojane. Following our meeting with the women of Marobela, we planted the palm, held hands and listened to inspirational words of wisdom which highlighted the true meaning of the journey. We hope to return to Marobela one day and Lucy's farm to see how big the Palm has grown and how the legacy of that special day has developed.
The Wedding!!!
Below - the lovely Lucy in traditional dress, carrying gifts for the happy couple (needless to say we didn't try that!!!!!), the traditional celeration food being cooked and the gorgeous children, including the bridesmaids.
Below - Lucy's amazing farm in Marobela, Botswana
Above - Tying a our first ribbon at Lucy's Farm marking the loss of 587 women in England and Wales killed by their current or ex-partners. (587km travelled)
Above - Celebrations to welcome home 800m Silver medalist Nijel Amos
Below - the 8km walk to and from the shelter was a little hot to say the least!
Above - Traditional family room at the Shelter
Below - the gym and offices
Above - Tying a ribbon with our friends at Kagisano Society Women's Shelter Project
Below - Tying a ribbon with our friends at Stepping Stones
Above - Tying the second ribbon at Stepping Stones, their Vision & Values, the new Bakery and a drawing by one of their beneficiaries to explain his experiences of Stepping Stones.
Below - Setting off for the 10km walk to Gatwick
Massive thank you to everyone at KBR who brought and tied ribbons to trees on their local Headquarters site to remember the women who had been killed by their partners and ex-partners in the UK, their support both before and after the journey is greatly appreciated xx (see below)
Pictures from our KBR Lunch n Learn event which took place on Tuesday 24th July, as well as the Lunch n Learn event KBR are also supporting the Journey in other ways. Over the next three weeks they will be selling 2000 ribbons (one to mark each km we travel and the loss of one woman's life), whilst we are in Botswana they will tie the ribbons to a circle of trees on their work site marking our progress. This is a really brilliant idea and truly reflects the ethos of our journey. Thanks to everyone at KBR but especially to Maria without which this would not all be possible.
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